The outlook for Cyprus tourism in 2025 is positive, with improved booking flows compared to the same period last year, according to Thanos Michaelides, President of the Cyprus Hotel Association.

In a statement to the Cyprus News Agency, Michaelides noted that early bookings for 2025 show a marked improvement compared to 2024. While the first half of 2024 experienced subdued booking activity from Cyprus’ key markets, this was compensated by stronger performance in the second half of the year.

“The flow of bookings for 2025 is better,” Michaelides said, adding that if the first half of 2025 surpasses the same period in 2024, the tourism season is likely to be stronger. However, he clarified that the increase in bookings is not expected to be dramatic.

Addressing Cyprus’ tourism infrastructure, Michaelides highlighted that most hotels were built in the 1980s and 1990s, making them 30 to 40 years old. Despite their age, many have maintained a high standard, thanks to recent government incentives that prompted hoteliers to upgrade facilities and enhance quality.

“Our product may be older, but it is still at a very good level compared to competing destinations,” he remarked. However, he emphasized the need for further modernization and updating of Cyprus’ tourism offerings to remain competitive.

Michaelides pointed out that hotels require significant investments for upgrades, noting that it is no longer economically viable to make substantial investments in aging units. He also underlined the challenge of improving the energy efficiency of older buildings, which cannot match the performance of new constructions.

He suggested that tax incentives or other measures might be necessary to encourage hoteliers to invest in upgrading existing facilities. “This is a complex issue that we need to address,” he concluded.